5 Best Scenic Train Rides in Hudson Valley for Fall 2025

For travelers in Fall 2025, scenic train rides in Hudson Valley offer a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and sightseeing.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple seeking a romantic escape, or a family looking for a fun day out, these rail adventures bring the best of fall foliage and historic charm together.

🚂 Why Scenic Train Rides Are Perfect in Fall

• Relaxation: Enjoy a stress-free day, letting the train glide past some of New York’s most picturesque landscapes.
• Historic Charm: Many trains run along tracks used for over a century, offering a peek into the region’s rich rail history.
• Family-Friendly Adventures: Comfortable, safe, and engaging rides for all ages.

🌟 Top Scenic Train Rides in Hudson Valley for Fall 2025

🚂 1. Catskill Mountain Railroad – Kingston to Phoenicia

This classic mountain route takes passengers through the heart of the Catskills. The train passes charming towns, river crossings, and forests bursting with fall colors.

• Station Address / Boarding Location: 2950 NY-32, Kingston, NY 12401
• Ticket Prices: $25–$40 per person, depending on seating
• Duration: Approx. 3 hours one way
• Group Size: Max 100 passengers per ride
• Seasonal Highlights: Pumpkin and harvest-themed rides during peak fall weekends (late September to mid-October for peak foliage)
• Nearby Dining: Kingston City Market, Riverview Café
• Nearby Accommodation: Kingston Hotel, The Rondout Inn
• Transportation / Parking: On-site parking available; accessible by local taxi or shuttle
• Insider Tip: Grab a window seat on the left side for the best autumn views

🚂 2. Hudson Line – Metro-North Railroad (Grand Central to Poughkeepsie)

A riverfront journey perfect for a day trip from New York City. This ride hugs the Hudson River, offering views of historic towns, old estates, and the changing fall foliage.

• Station Address / Boarding Location: Grand Central Terminal, 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017
• Ticket Prices: $20–$25 one-way from NYC
• Duration: Approx. 2 hours
• Group Size: Varies per train; typically 200–300 passengers
• Seasonal Highlights: Evening sunset rides are ideal for golden-hour photography (best foliage: late September to early October)
• Nearby Dining: Poughkeepsie Waterfront Grill, Mill House Café
• Nearby Accommodation: Riverview Hotel, Poughkeepsie Guesthouse
• Transportation / Parking: Ample parking at Poughkeepsie station; Metro-North accessible from NYC
• Insider Tip: Take a morning ride for crisp air and soft lighting perfect for photos

🚂 3. Harlem Line – Metro-North Railroad (Grand Central to Wassaic)

This ride winds through rolling countryside and small towns, giving passengers a quieter, serene fall experience.

• Station Address / Boarding Location: Grand Central Terminal, 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017
• Ticket Prices: $15–$22 one-way from NYC
• Duration: Around 2.5 hours
• Group Size: Typically 150–200 passengers per train
• Seasonal Highlights: Colorful farm landscapes and historic stone bridges along the route (peak foliage: early to mid-October)
• Nearby Dining: Wassaic Farm Market, The Millstone Café
• Nearby Accommodation: Wassaic Country Inn, nearby B&Bs
• Transportation / Parking: Parking at Wassaic station; easy access by car or shuttle
• Insider Tip: Window seats on the right side give the best river and valley views

🚂 4. Delaware & Ulster Railroad – Arkville to Kingston

Step back in time on this historic mountain railway. The route passes through Catskill peaks, sparkling streams, and vibrant fall forests.

• Station Address / Boarding Location: 210 Railroad Ave, Arkville, NY 12406
• Ticket Prices: $30–$50 per adult, with family packages available
• Duration: 4 hours round trip
• Group Size: Max 120 passengers
• Seasonal Highlights: Foliage tours with vintage carriages and seasonal treats (late September to mid-October)
• Nearby Dining: Arkville Diner, Catskill Eatery
• Nearby Accommodation: Arkville Inn, Catskill Mountain Lodge
• Transportation / Parking: On-site parking available; accessible by car and local taxi
• Insider Tip: Ride in the open-air car for unobstructed views and crisp fall air

🚂 5. Rhinebeck & Northern Scenic Train Rides

Perfect for shorter excursions, this ride is ideal for families or casual travelers looking for a quick taste of Hudson Valley’s autumn beauty.

• Station Address / Boarding Location: 51 E Market St, Rhinebeck, NY 12572
• Ticket Prices: $20–$30 per person
• Duration: 1–2 hours
• Group Size: Max 80 passengers per ride
• Seasonal Highlights: Fall-themed weekend rides with local food and drink (best foliage: mid-October)
• Nearby Dining: Rhinebeck Bakery, Main Street Café
• Nearby Accommodation: Beekman Arms & Delamater Inn, local B&Bs
• Transportation / Parking: Parking available near station; accessible by car or local taxi
• Insider Tip: Combine this ride with a visit to Rhinebeck’s shops and cafes for a full-day experience

🎉 Conclusion

From the mountain vistas of the Catskills to the riverfront charm of the Hudson, Hudson Valley’s scenic train rides provide a relaxing, picturesque way to experience fall 2025.

Whether it’s a short family excursion in Rhinebeck, a romantic ride along the Hudson, or a historic journey through the Catskills, these train trips deliver unforgettable fall memories.

Read More: 5 Best Brewery Tours in Hudson Valley for Fall 2025